An intense dispute has sparked in the midst of discussions regarding the potential rise in Edmonton taxpayers’ contributions next year. A city councillor has openly expressed his concern, attributing the proposed increment mostly to police expenditure. This public assertion has provoked an ardent rebuttal from the law enforcement body’s union.
The proposal that was disclosed last week suggest a hike of seven per cent in 2024, a substantial rise from the previously approved increment of five per cent. An additional contribution of 2.13 per cent is expected, out of which 1.63 per cent would be allocated towards the police budget ($11.8 million) and covering an arbitrated salary settlement for officers ($19.7 million).
Councillor Michael Janz asserted, “The majority of this tax increase is going to the police…This is a marked increase in police tax.” He further questioned the vast sum being funneled to the police and pondered if this area should receive further provincial funding. His suggestive questions also hinted at the expectation of the police service to identify further efficiencies.
Janz drew attention to high expenditures such as armored vehicles, helicopters, an airplane, hiring communications staff, management layers, no layoffs and higher salaries for police managers. He strongly advocated for stringent review of all city departments to keep the tax increment minimal, particularly the city’s largest expense – the police department, which currently accounts for about 15 per cent of all costs.
Following a freeze in 2021 to 2022 due to the “defund the police” movement, the police budget shows indications of a steep rise, with taxpayers set to contribute $452 million to policing in 2024, a remarkable increase from the $385 million in 2022.
In response to these accusations, EPS defended its budget by emphasizing that it goes through rigorous scrutiny by the police commission. Cheryl Sheppard countered concerns raised about office rent and fuel costs, ensuring the primary focus remains affixed on addressing street conditions and safety concerns.
Vice-president of the Edmonton Police Association, Detective Cory Kerr, expressed his discontent with the progressing debate, feeling the police have unnecessarily been singled out and blamed for the proposed increment. He strongly contested the notion of using ‘overworked police members as scapegoat’ and emphasized that officers have served selflessly amidst personal sacrifices, thus deserving their raises.
However, Councillor Aaron Paquette mentioned the limitation in budgeting for unforeseen costs in the future and suggested that immediate payment was unavoidable. He acknowledged the ongoing debate on police funding but stated that voices in support of funding the police more tend to be louder.
On a closing note, the Edmonton Police Commission has submitted a request for an additional $10 million in 2024, earmarked for equipment and technical upgrades. The seven per cent tax increase proposal will be brought forth for deliberation later this month.
